Cost Estimator
Controller Job Description
A cost estimator is responsible for estimating the costs of a large-scale project, and must first collect and analyze project-specific data that will help them prepare estimates. They start by gathering financial data and use it to generate an estimate of the money, labor, materials, and production time it will take to complete a given project. Construction Cost Estimators will estimate the cost of construction work. For example, estimating the cost to build a high-rise apartment building, a shopping center, or a bridge. Cost estimates would include raw materials, labor, and length of build. Manufacturing Cost Estimators will estimate the cost of redesigning, producing, or developing products or services, such as home appliances, vehicles, or software systems. Much of a cost estimator’s attention is dedicated to tracking down, analyzing, and interpreting pricing data that will help them make accurate projections. They may review technical documents and fee schedules for up-to-date figures and time frames and use manufacturing or construction cost estimating software to process the data. As any cost estimator job description will indicate, the role involves a great deal of communication. Professional estimators discuss cost data with suppliers, architects, and other partners. They also maintain relationships with sales teams to produce clean, client-facing reports and stay abreast of ongoing projects. In many cases, they are responsible for reviewing progress and spending activities to create adjusted estimates that take new information into account. As projects move forward, they look for ways to lower the expenses associated with these ongoing efforts.
To ensure success as a cost estimator, you should have in-depth knowledge of construction and mechanical processes, a good eye for detail, and advanced mathematical skills. A top-class cost estimator can see the big picture of a project and accurately estimate all costs involved.
To become a professional estimator, students will need to earn an undergraduate degree. In many cases, employers prefer a bachelor’s degree in engineering, accounting, finance, industrial distribution, or business. A strong understanding of accounting principles, standards, and processes is essential for students who aspire to be professional estimators. Locating, verifying, and analyzing financial information requires a solid finance background and business aptitude.
Typical duties of a Controller
• Meeting with clients to discuss the scope and scale of the project.
• Traveling to job sites to gather information on materials, labor, and other factors.
• Collaborating with engineers, contractors, and architects.
• Consulting with industry experts to discuss cost estimates.
• Identifying and quantifying all cost factors involved in the project.
• Using computer software to calculate cost estimates.
• Preparing and presenting cost reports for clients.
• Reviewing expenditure statements during all phases of the project.
Essential skills:
• Proven work experience as a cost estimator.
• Advanced knowledge of construction and engineering processes.
• High-level mathematical skills.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Advanced analytical skills.
• Proficient with computer estimation software.
• Good project management skills.
• Ability to travel.
Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or a similar field.